Modern and Traditional Dentures

Most people think of dentures as the old school, false teeth of their grandparents. But dentures today actually come in a number of different varieties depending on the individual needs and lifestyle expectations of their wearers. In fact, some dentures are actually permanent solutions that can’t be removed. Far from the clunky old dentures of your grandparents, today’s alternatives utilize a variety of cutting-edge materials, are lighter, stronger, more resilient, more comfortable, and generally fit more naturally and more precisely than the dentures of yesterday.

"When deciding between the various widely available dentures options, the most important factor is whether it will be a good fit for you."

DR. MAMALY RESHAD, DDS

What Exactly Are The Dentures of Today?

Dentures are artificial teeth designed and fabricated as aesthetic and functional replacements for real teeth. Dentures can come in a variety designs and applications. While a full set of removable dentures, or artificial teeth, remains a popular option for those with edentulism, there are other great options. Today, patients can choose between conventional dentures, also referred to as immediate dentures, partial dentures, and implant-supported denture solutions. Each different denture treatment has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that every consumer should consider before making a final decision.

Yes, There Are Affordable Dentures

For the most part, dentures are the most affordable tooth restoration option. Compared to conventional individual dental implants which can be as high as $2,500 to $4,500 per tooth or as high as $150,000+ for a full mouth replacement procedure, a complete set of dentures with 32 teeth can cost roughly $2,000 to $5,000 per denture (upper and lower plates).

While individual dental implants have significant advantages, the cost can be prohibitive for some patients. Not only do dentures cost significantly less than other solutions, they are also less invasive, require little recovery, and aren't dependent on the quality and quantity of existing underlying bone structures.

When deciding between the various widely available dentures options, the most important factor is whether it will be a good fit for you. Ask yourself the following questions: will it fit my lifestyle? Will it fit my dental health needs? Will it fit my budget? Once you have the answers to these fundamental questions, you can then decide which denture therapy will work best for you.

3 Most Common Types of Dentures

1. Traditional Full Dentures

Traditional dentures are the full sets of removable teeth and gums that come to mind when most people think of dentures. Traditional dentures rely on suction and soft tissue support to stay in place. This tried-and-true solution to tooth loss, however, has come a long way from the old dentures of the past. While the basics remain the same, the materials and fabrication methods have vastly improved. Dentures can now be designed and created out a variety of dental-grade materials, including porcelain or acrylic, depending on your personal needs and desires. They can also be crafted in a way as to be virtually indistinguishable from real teeth to the casual observer.

2. Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are dentures designed to fill in a gap. Sometimes referred to as dental bridges, partial dentures are not supported by the gums but rather by healthy adjacent teeth. Successful supports can be created in a variety of ways, including metal clasps and even crowns.

3. Implant-supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures combine the stability, aesthetics, and longevity of conventional implants with the affordability and relative ease of replacement associated with traditional dentures. Conventional dental implants require one implant per tooth. This means that a full set of teeth, both upper and lower arches, would require 32 implants or more! In contrast, implant supported dentures only need as little as four implants per arch for permanent stability. As a result of the drastically reduced number of implants required, implant-supported dentures cost less, are easier to install, and require a shorter recovery period than full mouth reconstruction with conventional individual implants.

Compared to traditional dentures, implant-supported denture solutions are generally more expensive. However, the sticker price doesn’t tell the entire story. The comparably longer longevity, higher resilience, better mouth feel, and more seamless sit all point to a solution that is well worth the initial upfront investment. Furthermore, implant-based solutions actually physically stimulate the underlying jaw bones which help to combat bone resorption or atrophy.

Denture Renovation and Restoration

Sometimes, investing in a brand new set of dentures doesn’t always make sense. Maybe you just purchased a set from one of our competitors, and the fit and quality aren’t up to snuff. Or, you have an old pair of removable dentures you’d rather not throw away. ArtLab Dentistry is proud to offer denture renovation and restoration services. Like restoring an old historic home of great value, ArtLab Dentistry understands that renovation and restoration of dentures are more than just a simple, functional repair. Your dentures are your teeth, and an extension of your natural self both physically and aesthetically. Whether a conventional denture set, partials, or even implant-supported, ArtLab Dentistry can make them look better, feel better, and function better. The goal is to take an old set of dentures and make them look and feel as indistinguishable from your natural teeth as possible.

Why ArtLab Dentistry?

Before creating your new teeth, world-renowned Prosthodontist, Dr. Mamaly Reshad of ArtLab Dentistry will conduct a full oral examination and discusses all your options with you. If you decide that dentures are your best choice, and which denture treatment works best for you, we will begin custom development of your dentures in our cutting-edge fabrication lab which ensures the highest standard of care and craftsmanship at every step in the process. We look forward to bringing you quality dental care and delivering the best service possible.

Call us today at 818-465-5041 or click the Schedule Consultation button below. We look forward to serving you.